1. Avoid Traditional Resume Objectives

Instead use a headline containing the job title you are seeking. So just put "Entry-Level Programmer," "Junior Network Administrator," or "Help Desk / Technical Support" at the top of your resume, as appropriate for the job you are applying for, of course.

2. Categorize Technical Competencies

You need to have a Technical Competencies section that shows what you know and supports keyword searches. Organize these by topic such as:

Languages

Operating Systems

Protocols

Tools

RDBMS

Methodologies

Important: Even though you had exposure to programming and networking, only put the competencies relevant to your target position. For example, if you are seeking a network support role, do not put Java and programming languages here as it is confusing.

At the beginning of your career, it is okay to put in things that you do not have that much experience in, but do not overstuff it with things you really don't know.

Since most of your IT experience is through your training, you need to really showcase your learning. A good tip is to detail your education on your resume in the same way as you would list a job.

Here you can detail the courses you took, how many hours of training you had, and the technologies you learned. Refer to your detailed curriculum (but don’t just repeat it) to refresh your mind regarding subjects and technologies covered.

Key trick: Go into detail about the hands-on projects you completed as part of your training, as below.

4. Stress Transferable Skills

This is where most people fall down. If you have held non-IT jobs, then these need to be highlighted on the resume. Don’t just list your roles here, use this to highlight the core skills you demonstrated that would be relevant to an entry-level IT position.

Remember that the most important skill an employer looks for is good communication skills.

Other important traits to stress are:

Ability to work independently

Customer-service mentality

Track record of getting things done on time

Attention to quality and accuracy

Ability to juggle multiple tasks and priorities

So, if you were a Bartender or Waitress, stress your ability to build rapport with a variety of personalities, perform in a fast-paced environment, and build customer loyalty through exceptional service.

5. Include Appropriate Keywords to Get Past the ATS

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by many companies and this is the software that scans your resume and ranks it according to the keywords the company has listed. If you submit your resume over the web (not my first choice), your resume will go through the ATS, and if you do not get a good score here, you may not be seen at all by a human being.

Start by reviewing the job description and make sure you have their keywords in your resume.

This can be a bit tricky. For example, here is a recent posting for an entry-level programmer.

Any previous experience with C++, Java or any other OO based language (even with school projects)

6. Add Testimonials

Finally, you can add a little oomph to your resume if you have any testimonials from professors or employers. Putting "Grace is the consummate customer service professional who delights the customer" can be just what you need to stand out.

7. Confirm Qualifications with LinkedIn

Most employers Google job candidates and compare the resume with the LinkedIn Profile. "Prove" (and demonstrate) the truth of the content of your resume with the content of your LinkedIn Profile. LinkedIn is the best place to be professionally visible for your career.

Don Goodman is a triple-certified nationally recognized career professional (Expert Resume Writer, Certified Career Coach, and Job Search Strategist) with over 20 years of experience helping thousands of people quickly land their next job. A graduate of the Wharton School of Business and Stanford University’s Executive Program,